Prophet’s (PBUH) Guidance on Taraweeh Prayer
The Guidance of the Prophet (PBUH) in Taraweeh Prayer, Taraweeh prayer is one of the most cherished practices during Ramadan, offering a unique opportunity for Muslims to engage in nightly devotion and seek closeness to Allah. This article explores the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) regarding Taraweeh prayer, its structure, recitation, and related acts of worship. The Prophet’s example serves as the foundation for this significant Sunnah, reflecting his profound spirituality and the balance he maintained between ease and devotion.
Definition and Origin of Taraweeh Prayer
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The term Taraweeh is derived from the Arabic root raaha, meaning to rest or relax. This prayer earned its name due to the short breaks taken after every four rak’ahs, making it a unique form of night worship during Ramadan. The plural form of Tarweehah reflects this practice of pauses for rest, as performed by early Muslims.
Historically, Taraweeh finds its roots in the traditions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Although performed individually and in congregation at different times, it was a consistent feature of his worship in Ramadan. It is noteworthy that the Taraweeh prayer is not separate from the general concept of Qiyam al-Layl (night prayer) but is a specific manifestation of it during Ramadan.
The Number of Rak’ahs in Taraweeh Prayer
The Prophet’s guidance on the number of rak’ahs in Taraweeh prayer is rooted in authentic traditions. The narration of Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) is central to understanding this aspect:
“The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) did not observe more than eleven Rak’ahs (of Tahajjud prayers), be it in Ramadan or any other month. First of all, he would perform four Rak’ahs. Ask not about their excellence and their length. Then he would perform four more Rak’ahs; and do not ask about their excellence and their length. Then he would perform three Rak’ahs (Witr).”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, 1147; Sahih Muslim, 738)
From this narration, scholars infer that the Prophet consistently prayed eight rak’ahs of Taraweeh followed by three rak’ahs of Witr. However, the Prophet’s emphasis was not solely on the number but on the quality and focus of the prayer, as seen in his extended recitations and deep humility.
Divergence in Practice
Despite the clarity of the above narration, jurists and scholars have differed on the ideal number of rak’ahs for Taraweeh prayer. Some practices extend to 20 rak’ahs, as observed during the caliphate of Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him), who formalized congregational Taraweeh in the mosque. Others adhere to the 11 rak’ahs established in the Sunnah of the Prophet.
This divergence reflects the flexibility and inclusivity in Islamic worship, allowing Muslims to adopt what is easier for them while maintaining the essence of devotion and connection with Allah.
The Prophet’s Guidance in Performing Taraweeh Prayer
The Prophet’s manner of performing Taraweeh prayer serves as a role model for Muslims. His focus on sincerity, consistency, and reflection during prayer highlights key elements of this nightly worship.
1. Time of Taraweeh Prayer
The Prophet (PBUH) began his night prayers shortly after Isha and often extended them until the last third of the night. This timing underscores the significance of dedicating the quiet hours of the night to worship.
Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet said:
“Whoever stands (in prayer) during Ramadan with faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih al-Bukhari; Sahih Muslim)
This statement highlights the immense reward of engaging in Taraweeh, making it a spiritual priority during Ramadan.
2. Structure of Prayer
The Prophet performed Taraweeh in sets of two rak’ahs, as indicated by his statement:
“The night prayer is in two rak’ahs. If one fears the approach of dawn, let him perform one rak’ah to make what he has prayed odd-numbered.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 472; Sahih Muslim, 749)
This structure emphasizes simplicity and accessibility, ensuring that worshippers can engage without undue hardship.
The Prophet’s Guidance in Recitation During Taraweeh
The Prophet’s recitation during Taraweeh was characterized by a balance of reflection and clarity.
1. Length of Recitation
The Prophet’s recitation was often lengthy, as seen in the hadith of Hudhayfah ibn al-Yaman (may Allah be pleased with him):
“I prayed with the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) one night, and he started reciting Surah al-Baqarah. I thought he would bow after one hundred verses, but he continued. Then I thought he would finish it and bow, but he continued. Then he started Surah an-Nisa and recited it. Then he started Surah Al-Imran and recited it…” (Sahih Muslim, 772)
This narration reflects the depth of the Prophet’s engagement with the Qur’an during prayer. However, he also moderated his recitation when leading others, as evidenced by his instructions to Muadh ibn Jabal to shorten the prayer when leading congregations.
2. Reflection and Pauses
The Prophet’s recitation was measured and reflective, pausing at the end of verses to ponder their meanings. Ibn al-Qayyim noted that the Prophet sometimes repeated verses to reflect deeply on their implications, fostering a personal connection with the Qur’an.
The Prophet’s Guidance in Qunoot During Taraweeh
The Qunoot supplication in Witr prayer during Taraweeh has been a topic of discussion among scholars.
1. Absence of Qunoot in the Prophet’s Practice
Authentic narrations do not confirm the Prophet performing Qunoot during Witr regularly. Imam Ahmad stated:
“Nothing is narrated in the Qunoot of Witr from the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).”
This indicates that while the Qunoot is a recommended practice, it is not obligatory, allowing flexibility for worshippers.
2. Practice of the Companions
The Qunoot was more established among the Companions, such as Umar ibn al-Khattab, Ubayy ibn Ka’b, and Abdullah ibn Mas’ud. Their practices highlight the diversity and richness of Islamic traditions in voluntary worship.
Taraweeh Prayer in Congregation
The Prophet initially performed Taraweeh in congregation but refrained from making it a regular practice to avoid it becoming obligatory.
1. Congregational Taraweeh in the Prophet’s Time
Abu Dhar al-Ghifari narrated:
“The Prophet led us in prayer on the seventh night (of Ramadan) until one-third of the night had passed. On the fifth night, he led us until half the night had passed. On the third night, he led us until we feared missing the Suhur. Then he said: ‘Whoever prays with the Imam until he finishes, it is as if he has prayed the whole night.’” (Sunan an-Nasa’i, 1605; authenticated by Al-Albani)
This narration underscores the Prophet’s encouragement for congregational Taraweeh while maintaining its voluntary nature.
2. Formalization by Umar ibn al-Khattab
During Umar’s caliphate, Taraweeh was formalized as a congregational practice under the leadership of a single imam. This initiative enhanced the communal spirit of Ramadan and ensured consistency in worship.
Practical Lessons from the Prophet’s Guidance
The Prophet’s approach to Taraweeh prayer offers valuable lessons for Muslims:
Balance and Moderation
The Prophet’s prayers combined dedication with compassion, allowing flexibility for individuals with different capacities.Focus on Quality
His emphasis on sincerity, reflection, and humility underscores the spiritual essence of Taraweeh beyond its physical performance.Incorporating Rest and Reflection
The breaks between rak’ahs reflect the importance of pacing worship to maintain focus and energy.Encouraging Congregational Worship
While emphasizing individual devotion, the Prophet highlighted the communal benefits of praying Taraweeh in congregation.
Taraweeh prayer is a profound act of worship that epitomizes the spirit of Ramadan. The guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) serves as a timeless blueprint, emphasizing sincerity, reflection, and ease. Whether performed individually or in congregation, Taraweeh offers a unique opportunity to connect with Allah, seek forgiveness, and embody the essence of Ramadan.
By following the Prophet’s example, Muslims can enrich their spiritual journey and experience the transformative power of Taraweeh prayer during this blessed month.